New York & Company Inc is expecting a disappointing last quarter of 2011 performance. The company's strategy is to rationalise their performance cadence to aim for higher average dollar sales throughout fiscal 2011 although this approach has not been particularly successful during the holiday season.

New York & Company net losses for the fourth quarter 2011 are expected to total US$11 million to US$13 million. The company felt the need to increase their promotional efforts in December to drive sales volume and this has impacted on profit margins. The company going forwards is to address these promotional activities at crucial times during the retail year, with an emphasis on promoting the company's value proposition to customers.

New York & Company are forecasting stronger sales performance in 2012. The company's eCommerce business and outlet businesses continue to grow which is expected to see the opening of 15 to 20 new outlets in 2012.

The United States retail market is expected to see small growth in 2012 although only in specific areas of the high street. It is going to be a relatively tough year for retailers in 2012, especially considering disappointing sales in 2011 across the United States.

New York & Company is a leading specialty retailer of women's fashion apparel and accessories, and the modern wear-to-work destination for women. The Company currently operates 540 stores in 43 states.